Thermostat change out F1 8BA
#16
The good thing with my 160 degree thermostat experiment is that if running at 180 engine temp is too cold at highway speeds, and I can't get it leaned out to my satisfaction, I can always go back to the 180 stats that I had and run it hotter, so it's not a permanent decision. Actually I have gotten pretty good at changing them out. I read comments recently on another website / forum that said "we never run anything hotter than 160 degree thermostats in our flatheads" - period!
Hopefully you are putting the thermostats in correctly. They can go in upside down on a flathead.
![](https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.ford-trucks.com-vbulletin/550x361/engine_thermostat_flow_open_closed_e5d1b531f4f8c0cb39c84a10e2d4a57e655acb76.jpg)
Generic picture . . . not a flathead. The temp sensor goes to the engine side.
#17
Thanks. I read some information on a thermostat manufacturers website (not sure wich one) that confirms the rated temp marked on it is where it just begins opening, and the fully open temp will be somewhat higher. I don't want to bet this to death, I am just trying to get enough data to understand it.
I drove my truck all over today at highway speeds and it measured 175 degrees on the center of each headimmediately after I stopped. It was running a little rich so I backed off the idle screws, and re-adjusted it for RPM. It is ticking over at about 500 RPM at idle, and never sounded happier.
Next I will pull a plug to look at it, to make sure it's not running too rich.
Interesting stuff.
I drove my truck all over today at highway speeds and it measured 175 degrees on the center of each headimmediately after I stopped. It was running a little rich so I backed off the idle screws, and re-adjusted it for RPM. It is ticking over at about 500 RPM at idle, and never sounded happier.
Next I will pull a plug to look at it, to make sure it's not running too rich.
Interesting stuff.
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